Relates to establishing additional requirements to purchase a firearm, shotgun or rifle; requires a person to apply for a hunting license prior to the purchase of a shotgun or rifle; establishes additional requirements for all firearms, shotguns and rifles including taking a five hour gun safety course and exam, passing a shooting range test with 90% accuracy, providing notarized proof of a passed drug test and mental health evaluation, providing proof of purchase of firearm and ammunition safe storage depositories and passing a criminal background check.

New York Senate Bill S03981 proposes stricter requirements for purchasing firearms, shotguns, and rifles. Key provisions include: 1) Mandatory application for a hunting license before buying a shotgun or rifle. 2) Completion of a five-hour gun safety course and passing an exam. 3) Achieving 90% accuracy on a shooting range test. 4) Providing notarized proof of passing a drug test and mental health evaluation. 5) Showing proof of purchase for firearm and ammunition safe storage. 6) Passing a criminal background check. The bill was introduced on January 31, 2025, and referred to the Senate Codes Committee on January 7, 2026.

Supporters of S03981 argue that the bill enhances public safety by ensuring that firearm purchasers are well-trained and mentally fit. They believe that the comprehensive requirements will reduce gun-related incidents and promote responsible gun ownership.

Critics contend that the bill imposes excessive burdens on law-abiding citizens seeking to exercise their Second Amendment rights. They argue that the stringent requirements could deter individuals from legally purchasing firearms and may not effectively address criminal misuse of guns.